Uganda Gold Export Procedure 2026 |Legal Requirements, Costs & Step-by-Step Guide

Uganda has rapidly become one of Africa’s leading gold trading and refining hubs, attracting investors and international buyers from markets such as Dubai, Europe, Asia, and the United States. Due to its strategic location near major gold-producing regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania, South Sudan, and Kenya, Uganda plays a critical role in the regional gold supply chain. As global demand for certified 24K gold bars and bullion continues to grow, understanding the Uganda gold export procedure in 2026 is essential for anyone looking to buy, sell, or export gold legally and profitably.

However, exporting gold from Uganda requires strict compliance with government regulations. Exporters must work with licensed mineral dealers, approved gold refineries, and official export authorities, while also ensuring that the gold is refined to international standards (typically 99.9% purity) and accompanied by the required documentation. In addition, exporters must follow procedures related to assay testing, customs clearance, export permits, and government levies before gold can be shipped internationally through Entebbe International Airport.

This comprehensive 2026 guide to gold export in Uganda explains everything you need to know, including legal licensing requirements, required export documents, assay and refinery certification, export taxes, transit gold rules, and step-by-step export procedures. You will also learn about cost breakdowns, customs verification processes, and common gold trading scams to avoid when sourcing gold from East Africa.

Whether you are an international gold buyer, mining investor, refinery partner, or licensed exporter, this guide provides reliable information to help you navigate Uganda’s gold export system safely, legally, and efficiently while connecting with trusted suppliers in one of Africa’s fastest-growing gold markets.

Overview of Gold Export in Uganda

Uganda’s gold export sector is regulated under the Mining & Minerals Act 2022 and overseen by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM).

Key highlights:

Uganda produces over 50 tons of gold annually, refined to 99.99% purity.
Most exports go to Dubai, India, Switzerland, and Asia.
Licensed refineries issue assay certificates, ensuring international buyers receive verified gold.
The government introduced a $200 per kilogram export levy in 2026, part of its effort to formalize and regulate gold exports.

Gold exports in Uganda are attractive due to zero VAT on refined gold, efficient export processing, and globally recognized certifications.

Legal Requirements to Export Gold

Legal Requirement	Issuing Authority	Purpose	Notes
Export Permit	Directorate of Geological Survey & Mines (DGSM)	Legal authorization to export gold	Mandatory for all exporters
Tax Identification Number (TIN)	Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)	Confirms tax compliance	Required for both locals and foreigners
Temporary Dealer Permit	DGSM	Allows foreigners or occasional exporters to trade gold	Needed for first-time foreign buyers
Purity Certificate	Licensed Refinery	Verifies gold karat & weight	Must accompany gold for customs clearance
Commercial Invoice	Exporter	Documents the gold sale for customs and the buyer	Includes price, weight, and buyer details
Export Documentation	DGSM / Customs	Ensures legal compliance	Required for customs clearance at Entebbe Airport
Logistics & Insurance Proof	Shipping Company	Confirms secure transport	Recommended for international shipments

Export Taxes & Levies ($200/kg Export Levy)

When exporting gold from Uganda, understanding the taxes and levies is crucial. In 2026, Uganda maintained a $200 per kilogram export levy on refined gold, alongside other applicable charges. These fees are designed to formalize the gold trade, ensure legal compliance, and support government revenue while keeping Uganda competitive in the international gold market.

Export Levy

Amount: $200 per kilogram of refined gold
Applicable to: All gold exported through Uganda’s licensed refineries and export channels
Purpose: Official government fee for regulatory oversight
Payment: Paid to the Directorate of Geological Survey & Mines (DGSM) before customs clearance

This levy is mandatory for both local and foreign exporters. Failure to pay may result in confiscation of gold or legal penalties.

VAT and Tax Holiday

VAT: 0% on refined gold exports (2026 regulation)
New refineries: May qualify for a 5-year tax holiday to encourage investment
Impact: Reduces the overall cost of exporting gold and increases profitability for legitimate exporters

Other Fees Related to Export

Fee	Amount	Notes
Refining Fee	1–3% of gold value	Charged by licensed refineries for purification and assay
Assay Certification	$50–150	Required to verify gold purity before export
Logistics & Insurance	$500–$2,000	Armored transport and insured shipment via Entebbe Airport

Tip: Always confirm the exact levy and fees with the refinery and DGSM, as rates can slightly vary depending on gold quantity, purity, and export route.

Why the Export Levy Matters

Ensures compliance with Uganda’s Mining & Minerals Act 2022
Confirms the gold is legally exported through licensed refineries
Protects exporters from legal penalties and confiscation
Helps maintain trust with international buyers, especially in Dubai, India, and Switzerland

2026 Regulatory Updates on Gold Export in Uganda

Uganda’s gold export sector has experienced significant regulatory attention in 2026, particularly from Parliament and government oversight bodies. These discussions aim to improve transparency, increase national revenue, and strengthen Uganda’s position as a major gold trading hub in Africa.

Parliamentary Debate on Export Levy (COSASE – February 2026)

In February 2026, Uganda’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) held discussions regarding the country’s gold export taxation framework.

Several Members of Parliament raised concerns that the current gold export levy of approximately $200 per kilogram is extremely low compared to the international market value of gold, which averages around $150,000 per kilogram.

During the debate, some lawmakers suggested that Uganda may consider:

Increasing the export levy to boost national revenue
Strengthening monitoring systems for gold exporters
Improving transparency in gold trade documentation
Ensuring that gold exported from Uganda contributes more significantly to the national economy

While no immediate law change has been implemented yet, analysts believe the government may review gold export taxation policies in the coming years.

For investors and international buyers, this means staying informed about future policy adjustments that could affect export costs and licensing requirements.

Uganda’s Ban on Exporting Unprocessed Gold

Uganda has also strengthened regulations concerning the export of raw or unprocessed gold.

Under current enforcement policies, the government requires that:

All gold intended for export must be refined locally
The gold must reach a minimum purity of 99.9%
Exporters must present a refinery certificate and assay report
Gold must be processed through licensed refineries operating in Uganda

This policy aims to:

Increase local value addition in the mining sector
Promote the growth of Ugandan gold refineries
Improve traceability and transparency in gold trade
Reduce illegal gold smuggling across borders

As a result, most gold exported from Uganda today is shipped as refined gold bars or bullion, rather than raw gold ore or unprocessed nuggets.

Impact on International Gold Buyers

For international buyers purchasing gold from Uganda in 2026, these regulations mean that:

Gold exports must comply with strict documentation requirements
Buyers will receive refined gold with certified purity
Transactions are processed through licensed exporters and refineries
Export shipments must pass through official customs clearance at Entebbe International Airport

These measures are designed to increase trust in Uganda’s gold supply chain and protect international investors from fraudulent transactions.

Regulatory Outlook for Uganda’s Gold Industry

Uganda’s gold sector continues to expand rapidly due to growing regional production from Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, and Tanzania.

Industry experts expect the following developments in the near future:

Possible revision of export levies
Stronger monitoring of gold supply chains
Expansion of gold refining capacity in Uganda
Increased government oversight of gold trading companies

These reforms are expected to make Uganda one of the most regulated and transparent gold export markets in East Africa.

Gold Purity Certification & Assay Testing

Certified purity is mandatory for export. Licensed Ugandan refineries conduct:

Testing Method	Description	Purpose
Fire Assay	Gold is melted to determine purity	Ensures accuracy for LBMA standards
XRF Analysis	Non-destructive quick test	Preliminary purity verification
Spectrometry	Lab-based precise analysis	Confirm international-grade 24K, 22K, 18K

Gold Purity Certificates Include:

Refinery name and stamp
Purity level (e.g., 24K, 22K)
Weight of gold
Batch/serial number
Date of assay

These certificates are mandatory for customs clearance and international acceptance.

Step-by-Step Export Process for Gold from Uganda

Exporting gold from Uganda requires following a clear legal and procedural framework to ensure compliance, safety, and international acceptance. Below is a complete breakdown of each step:

Step 1: Verify Refinery & Gold Purity

Before exporting, your gold must be processed at a licensed refinery approved by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM).

Key actions:

Choose a DGSM-licensed refinery (e.g., African Gold Refinery, Bullion Refinery Limited, Euro Gold Refinery).
Have your gold tested for purity using fire assay, XRF, or spectrometry methods.
Obtain an official gold purity certificate stating:
- Gold type (24K, 22K, 18K)
- Purity percentage
- Weight
- Refinery stamp and serial number

Why this step matters: International buyers only accept gold certified by recognized refineries, and customs require purity verification.

Step 2: Export Permit Application

Once your gold is refined and certified, you must apply for an export permit with DGSM.

Requirements:

Submit a purity certificate from the refinery
Provide exporter details (name, company, TIN)
For foreigners: attach a temporary dealer permit or business license
Include commercial invoice and buyer information

Tips:

Applications can take 24–48 hours if all documents are in order.
Keep digital copies for customs and buyer verification.

Step 3: Pay Export Levy & Fees

Uganda imposes several fees to regulate gold exports:

Fee	Amount	Notes
Export levy	$200 per kg	Mandatory under 2026 regulations
Assay certificate	$50–$150	Required for customs clearance
Refining fee	1–3% of gold value	Charged by the refinery
Logistics & insurance	$500–$2,000	Armored transport to the airport or the buyer

Pro Tip: Factor these costs into your sale price to ensure profitability.

Step 4: Customs Clearance at Entebbe Airport

After paying fees:

Present export permit, assay certificate, and commercial invoice to Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) customs at Entebbe International Airport.
Gold is weighed, verified, and inspected by customs officials.
Ensure that serial numbers on gold bars match purity certificates.

Tip: Using a licensed export agent or logistics partner helps speed up customs clearance.

Step 5: Secure Shipping to Buyer

Once customs clearance is complete:

Use armored transport and insured shipping for safety.
Popular shipping destinations include Dubai, India, Switzerland, and Europe.
Track the shipment and provide documentation to the buyer for transparency.
Keep proof of insurance and tracking in case of discrepancies.

Extra Tip: Only ship through trusted couriers or logistics companies that specialize in precious metals to minimize risk.

$200/kg levy, assay, refining, and logistics costs.
Customs Clearance – Present documents at Entebbe Airport; gold is inspected.
Secure Shipping – Transport gold via insured, armored logistics to the buyer.

Cost Breakdown for Exporting Gold from Uganda

Exporting gold from Uganda involves several mandatory fees, which buyers and exporters must consider when calculating profitability. Understanding each cost helps ensure legal compliance, safe transactions, and transparent pricing.

Export Levy

Amount: $200 per kilogram of refined gold (2026 rate)
Payable to: Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM)
Purpose: Legal authorization for gold export and regulation of the trade
Note: Applies to all exported gold, whether by local or foreign buyers

Refining Fees

Amount: 1–3% of the gold’s value, depending on the refinery
Purpose: Covers purification, melting, and assay procedures
Notes: Fees vary by refinery and purity level; always confirm before refining

Assay & Purity Certification

Amount: $50–$150 per shipment, depending on lot size
Purpose: Verifies the karat and weight of gold for customs and buyers
Importance: Required for customs clearance and international acceptance

Logistics & Insurance

Amount: $500–$2,000 per shipment, depending on size and destination
Purpose: Safe transport via armored couriers or logistics providers
Notes: Always ensure your shipment is protected against theft or loss

Miscellaneous Costs

Amount: $50–$100
Purpose: Documentation, handling, or additional minor administrative fees
Notes: Usually includes temporary permits, certificate copies, or local transport

How Foreigners Can Export Gold from Uganda

Foreign buyers and investors are increasingly interested in exporting gold from Uganda, thanks to its high-quality certified gold and streamlined export procedures. However, foreigners must follow strict legal steps to ensure compliance and avoid scams.

Obtain a Temporary Dealer Permit

Issued by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM).
Allows foreigners to buy, refine, and export gold legally.
Usually valid for short-term exports or trial shipments.

Tip: Always apply before purchasing gold from a refinery to avoid legal issues.

Use a Licensed Refinery

Only DGSM-licensed refineries are allowed to refine and certify gold for export.
Popular options include:
- African Gold Refinery (AGR) – Entebbe
- Bullion Refinery Limited – Kampala
- Euro Gold Refinery (U) SMC Ltd – Nakawa
Refineries provide purity certificates (24K, 22K, or 18K), which are mandatory for customs clearance.

Tip: Always verify the refinery’s license on DGSM’s official portal.

Apply for an Export Permit

Foreign exporters must submit:
- Temporary dealer permit
- Refinery purity certificate
- Commercial invoice
- Passport copy
DGSM issues a legal export permit for the quantity of gold being shipped.

Pay Export Taxes & Fees

Export levy: $200 per kilogram of gold (2026)
Assay fee: $50–$150 for purity verification
Refinery fee: 1–3% of gold value
Logistics & insurance: $500–$2,000 depending on shipment size

Tip: Ensure all fees are paid before customs clearance to avoid shipment delays.

Customs Clearance at Entebbe

Present all documents to URA customs at Entebbe International Airport.
Customs inspects gold, verifies certificates, and ensures fees are paid.
Once cleared, gold is ready for shipment.

Secure International Shipping

Use insured armored transport or trusted logistics companies.
Popular export destinations: Dubai, India, Switzerland, and Europe.
Keep all tracking and insurance documentation for buyer verification.

Pro Tip: Always ship through experienced precious metal couriers to minimize risk.

Safety & Compliance Tips for Foreign Exporters

Never deal with unlicensed middlemen.
Verify gold purity certificates and refinery licenses.
Record serial numbers of gold bars before shipping.
Maintain all export documents for legal compliance.

Key Documents Checklist for Exporting Gold from Uganda (2026)

Before exporting gold from Uganda, exporters and international buyers must ensure that all mandatory legal documents are prepared and verified by the relevant authorities. Missing documentation can delay shipments or lead to penalties at customs.

Must-Have Documents for Gold Export in Uganda

Gold Export License – Issued by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, allowing a company to legally export gold.
Assay Report / Purity Certificate – Confirms the gold purity (usually 99.9%) issued by a licensed refinery or laboratory.
Certificate of Origin – Confirms where the gold was mined (Uganda, DRC, Tanzania, etc.).
Export Permit – Official authorization allowing the shipment to leave the country.
Proof of Export Levy Payment – Receipt confirming payment of the government export levy when applicable.

Additional documents may include a commercial invoice, packing list, and airway bill, depending on the shipping method and destination country.

Having these documents ready ensures smooth customs clearance at Entebbe International Airport and protects both buyers and sellers during international gold transactions.

Gold Export Taxes in Uganda: Local Gold vs Transit Gold

One of the most common questions asked by international buyers is whether all gold exported from Uganda is subject to the $200/kg export levy. The answer depends on the origin of the gold.

Uganda acts as a regional gold trading hub, meaning gold from neighboring countries such as DRC, South Sudan, and Tanzania often passes through Uganda for refining and export.

Uganda Gold Export Tax Comparison (2026)

Category	Description	Export Levy	Required Document	Key Notes
Locally Mined Gold	Gold extracted from Ugandan mines	$200 per kg	Export Levy Payment Receipt	Must be refined locally to at least 99.9% purity before export
Transit Gold (DRC / Tanzania / South Sudan)	Gold is transported into Uganda for refining and export	Exempt from the $200/kg levy	Certificate of Origin from the source country	Proof of origin must be presented to customs authorities
Refined Gold Bullion	Gold processed by Ugandan refineries	Depends on origin	Refinery Certificate	Must meet international bullion purity standards
Smuggled or Undeclared Gold	Gold without proper documentation	Not permitted	None	Subject to seizure and legal penalties

This system allows Uganda to maintain its position as an important refining and export hub for East and Central African gold.

Why Transit Gold is Exempt from Export Levy

Transit gold is exempt from Uganda’s $200/kg export levy when the exporter provides a valid Certificate of Origin from the country where the gold was mined.

This policy was introduced to:

Encourage regional gold trade through Uganda
Support the country’s gold refining industry
Attract international investors and traders
Improve traceability of gold entering global markets

Because of this policy, Uganda has become a major gateway for exporting gold sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and South Sudan.

How Customs Verifies Transit Gold in Uganda

When gold from neighboring countries such as DRC, Tanzania, or South Sudan passes through Uganda for refining and export, customs authorities must verify that it qualifies as transit gold and is therefore exempt from the $200/kg export levy. The verification process ensures that the gold is legally sourced and properly documented before it leaves the country.

Verification Step	What Customs Checks	Required Document	Purpose of the Check
1. Certificate of Origin Verification	Confirms the country where the gold was mined (e.g., DRC or Tanzania).	Certificate of Origin issued by authorities in the source country	Determines whether the gold qualifies as transit gold and is exempt from Uganda’s export levy.
2. Import Declaration Review	Customs checks records showing the gold legally entered into Uganda for refining or export.	Import declaration/customs entry forms	Prevents illegal gold smuggling and ensures traceability of the shipment.
3. Assay and Purity Testing	Gold is tested by licensed laboratories or refineries to confirm purity levels.	Assay Report or Refinery Certificate	Confirms the gold meets export standards (usually 99.9% refined gold).
4. Export Documentation Review	Authorities verify that the exporter has proper authorization to ship gold internationally.	Export Permit, Commercial Invoice, Packing List	Ensures the export is conducted by a licensed gold trading company.
5. Physical Inspection of Shipment	Customs officials inspect the gold bars or bullion before shipment.	Packing list and security seal verification	Confirms the weight, packaging, and declared value match the documentation.
6. Airport Export Clearance	Final approval is given before the gold leaves Uganda.	Airway Bill and customs clearance forms	Allows the shipment to depart legally through Entebbe International Airport.

Why This Verification Process Is Important

The transit gold verification system helps Uganda:

Maintain transparency in regional gold trade
Prevent illegal gold smuggling
Protect international buyers and investors
Strengthen Uganda’s reputation as a trusted gold export hub in Africa

Once customs completes these verification steps, the gold shipment is cleared for export to major international markets such as Dubai, Switzerland, India, China, Europe, and the United States.

Why Uganda Is a Major Gold Export Hub in Africa

Uganda has developed a strong reputation as a regional gold trading and refining center because of several factors:

Strategic location in East and Central Africa
Presence of licensed gold refineries
Favorable export regulations for transit gold
Access to international shipping routes through Entebbe Airport

As a result, many international investors and gold buyers prefer sourcing gold through licensed Ugandan exporters who handle refining, certification, and export documentation.

Avoiding Gold Export Scams in Uganda

Gold trading in Uganda is lucrative, but it also attracts fraudsters and unlicensed operators. Following proper precautions is essential to protect your investment and ensure legal compliance.

Verify Refinery Licenses

Only use DGSM-licensed refineries.
Check the official DGSM portal for license verification.
Avoid unknown or unregistered refineries that promise higher payouts.

Tip: Licensed refineries provide assay certificates, proper receipts, and digital verification for exported gold.

Confirm Gold Purity Certificates

Always ensure you receive a purity certificate from the refinery.
Check that the certificate includes:
- Refinery stamp
- Gold type (24K, 22K, 18K)
- Weight and serial number
Never export gold without a verified certificate, as customs and buyers will reject uncertified gold.

Avoid Upfront Fees to Unknown Agents

Real refineries pay you for gold; they do not demand large upfront “refining” or “export” fees.
Be suspicious of unverified middlemen claiming faster clearance.

Use Verified Export Documentation

Always have:
- Export permit from DGSM
- Commercial invoice
- TIN verification from URA
- Assay certificate
Keep digital and physical copies for audit and buyer verification.

Secure Logistics & Insurance

Only use insured, armored logistics providers.
Avoid transporting gold through unsecured channels.
Maintain tracking and insurance documentation for your shipment.

Record All Serial Numbers

Note serial numbers from assay certificates and gold bars.
This helps track your gold in case of theft or dispute.

Deal with Trusted Buyers

Export to verified international buyers with a reputation for reliability.
Use references, contracts, and escrow services when possible.

Common Scam Red Flags

Scam Type	Warning Signs
Fake Refineries	No DGSM license, offers unusually high payouts
Upfront Fees	Requests for “refining” or “export” fees before gold is received
Unverified Buyers	No references or escrow, insists on cash transfers
Fake Assay Certificates	Poor formatting, missing refinery stamp, or serial numbers

FAQ About Gold Export in Uganda

Is it legal to export gold from Uganda?

Yes, it is legal to export gold from Uganda as long as the exporter complies with government regulations. Exporters must obtain the required gold export license from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, ensure the gold is tested and certified for purity, and pay the required export levy (approximately $200 per kilogram) before shipment.

What documents are required to export gold from Uganda?

Exporting gold from Uganda requires several official documents, including:

Gold Export License
Certificate of Origin
Assay Report (Purity Certificate)
Export Permit from the Ministry of Energy
Commercial Invoice
Airway Bill for shipment
Proof of export levy payment

These documents ensure the gold is legally sourced and approved for international trade.

How much tax is charged when exporting gold from Uganda?

Uganda currently charges an export levy of about $200 per kilogram of gold. Additional costs may include:

Assay testing fees
Documentation fees
Shipping and insurance costs
Handling fees at the airport

These fees vary depending on the quantity and export destination.

Can foreigners export gold from Uganda?

Yes, foreigners can export gold from Uganda. However, they must either partner with a licensed Ugandan gold exporter or obtain the necessary export permits through registered companies. Working with a licensed gold dealer ensures compliance with Uganda’s mining and export laws.

Where is gold tested before export in Uganda?

Gold intended for export must be tested and verified by approved assay laboratories or refineries. The assay process confirms the purity level (for example, 22K, 23K, or 24K gold) and provides an official report required for export clearance.

How long does the gold export process take in Uganda?

The gold export process typically takes 2 to 5 business days once all documents and payments are completed. The timeline depends on:

Assay testing duration
Permit processing
Export levy clearance
Airport customs procedures

Working with experienced exporters can speed up the process.

What purity of gold is commonly exported from Uganda?

Most gold exported from Uganda ranges between 22K and 24K purity (91% – 99.99%). The gold is usually sold in the form of gold bars, gold nuggets, or dore bars, depending on the refining stage.

What is the safest way to ship gold from Uganda internationally?

Gold is typically shipped using insured and secure courier services from Entebbe International Airport. Common destinations include Dubai, Europe, Asia, and the United States. Shipments must be declared to customs and accompanied by the required export documents.

What are common gold export scams to avoid in Uganda?

Buyers should watch out for:

Fake export permits
Sellers requesting large upfront payments
Fake assay certificates
Non-existent gold stock

To avoid scams, buyers should always work with verified gold dealers, licensed exporters, and legally registered companies.

Can international buyers purchase gold directly from Uganda?

Yes, international buyers can purchase gold directly from Uganda through licensed gold trading companies and exporters. Many dealers also assist with:

Gold sourcing
Assay testing
Export documentation
Secure international shipping

This makes Uganda one of the major gold trading hubs in East Africa.

Is There VAT on Gold in Uganda?

No. Refined gold intended for export in Uganda is generally VAT-exempt (0% VAT) as of 2026.

The Ugandan government introduced this tax policy to encourage legal gold exports, attract foreign buyers, and strengthen the country’s position as a regional gold trading hub. Because gold exports bring foreign exchange into the economy, the government applies a zero VAT rate to refined bullion exported internationally.

However, exporters must still comply with other regulatory requirements such as:

Paying the $200 per kilogram export levy for locally mined gold
Providing a refinery assay report confirming purity (usually 99.9%)
Submitting the required export permits and customs documentation

This VAT exemption mainly applies to refined gold bullion that is officially exported, not to gold sold locally within Uganda.

Can I Export Gold from Uganda as an Individual?

No. In Uganda, individuals are not allowed to export gold without a registered company and the appropriate mining trade license.

To legally export gold, a person or business must:

Register a company in Uganda through the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).
Apply for a Mineral Dealer’s License from the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM).
Obtain a gold export permit for each shipment.
Ensure the gold is refined and certified by a licensed refinery.

These requirements are designed to ensure that all gold exports are conducted by registered, traceable, and regulated entities, reducing the risk of illegal trading and protecting international buyers.

Many foreign investors, therefore, choose to partner with licensed gold exporting companies in Uganda that already hold the necessary permits and export approvals.

How Long Is a Temporary Mineral Dealer’s Permit Valid in Uganda?

A Temporary Mineral Dealer’s Permit in Uganda is typically valid for one year, although the exact duration and renewal conditions may depend on the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM) regulations at the time of application.

This permit allows companies to:

Legally buy and trade gold within Uganda
Work with licensed miners or mining cooperatives
Prepare gold for refining and export

Before the permit expires, the license holder must apply for renewal or upgrade to a full mineral dealer’s license if they intend to continue trading.

Because regulations can change, exporters and investors are advised to check the current licensing status with DGSM or the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development before conducting large gold transactions.